Zion Builders, Inc. creates custom designs with bent boards using the HeatCon Heat Forming Kit:
- Lyssa Baldwin
- 7d
- 2 min read
Curved boards add movement, elegance, and character to an outdoor space by softening harsh lines and improving visual flow. Custom-built decks with curves make a deck feel more intentional and fit to your usable space. Zion Builders, Inc. uses HeatCon tools to make custom curved decking features.
One common method used to achieve these curves is the HeatCon Heat Forming Kit, which uses controlled heat. This process softens the wood’s lignin, the natural material that binds wood fibers together and thermoplastics in composite decking boards (like Trex). This makes the board flexible, allowing
clean, consistent curves without cutting or weakening the board.
The HeatCon Method
Frame and mark the deck where the bent boards are desired.
Turn on the HeatCon tool and applied evenly to the area of the board that needs to bend.
Use gloves for safe handling; the board’s are about 220°F.
Move the boards to desired location.
As the wood becomes flexible, pressure is slowly applied to bend the board.
The board is held or clamped (as needed) in place while it cools.
Once cooled, the lignin hardens again, allowing the board to keep its new shape.
Secure the boards with corect hardware.
Tips for Best Results
Heat the wood gradually and evenly to prevent scorching.
Bend the board slowly to avoid cracks or splits.
Expect some spring-back, so slightly over-bend when shaping.
How We Use Deck Board Bending in Your Project
When your design calls for curves, rounded edges, or custom shapes, we incorporate board bending directly into the build process incuding:
Create curved deck edges and borders
Design custom steps
Match the deck design naturally to the landscape or architecture
If you’re planning a deck project and are interested in incorporating curved or custom design elements, Zion Builders, Inc. would love to help. Contact Don Weaver at (775) 224-4860 for an estimate.
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